6 fatalities

Twin-Engine Aircraft Destroyed in Mountain Collision Near Nabire (PK-YPZ)

Nabire, IndonesiaFlight

On May 25, 2002, a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter (registration PK-YPZ) operated by Trigana Air Service was involved in an aviation accident near Nabire, Indonesia in flight. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Controlled flight into terrain. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-09-03Data APIEditorial standards

A twin-engine aircraft struck a mountain slope near Nabire in poor weather, killing all six occupants. The official probable cause was controlled flight into terrain.

Accident Overview and Location Details A twin-engine aircraft was destroyed after colliding with a mountain slope approximately 50 kilometers from Nabire. The impact occurred while the aircraft was cruising at an altitude of 7,800 feet. All six occupants on board were killed in the accident. ## Weather Conditions and Terrain At the time of the collision, visibility was poor due to heavy rain. The mountain struck by the aircraft was shrouded in mist, contributing to the challenging conditions. ## Official Findings The official investigation determined that the probable cause of the accident was controlled flight into terrain.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 25 May 2002 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident near Nabire, Indonesia?

A twin-engine aircraft struck a mountain slope near Nabire in poor weather, killing all six occupants. The official probable cause was controlled flight into terrain.

Were there any fatalities in the 25 May 2002 De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 6 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 25 May 2002 involved a De Havilland DHC-6 Twin Otter, registration PK-YPZ, operated by Trigana Air Service, at Nabire, Indonesia.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Controlled flight into terrain.